Osteochondrosis is a degenerative-dystrophic change in the complex of vertebrae, intervertebral discs and joints. It develops as a result of metabolic disorders in the cartilage and bone tissue of the vertebrae and discs. In simple words, with chondrosis and osteochondrosis, the discs and adjacent bone structures wear out over time, compensating for changes from the marginal growth of tissues and their compression. In case of chondrosis - only the disc cartilage, and in case of osteochondrosis - the vertebral bodies adjacent to it. This is a very common disease. According to WHO statistics, up to 80% of the world's inhabitants suffer from it. Doctors note that it most often occurs due to increased stress on the spine - excess weight and a sedentary lifestyle.
What to do with osteochondrosis and where to go if you suspect the disease, say neurologist Igor Matsokin and exercise therapy specialist Oksana Ivanova.
Distribution
According to the ICD-10 classification, spinal osteochondrosis has the code M42. It includes:
- M42. 0 Juvenile osteochondrosis of the spine Calve's disease, Scheuermann's disease
Excludes: positional kyphosis (M40. 0)
- M42. 1 Osteochondrosis of the spine in adults
- M42. 9 Spinal osteochondrosis, unspecified
The types
Depending on the location, there are several types:
Cervix
The cervical spine experiences a high load and a rather complex range of motion.
Symptoms:
A snapping and clicking sensation in the neck when turning the head from side to side, stiffness when moving. You may feel a headache (tension headache), a feeling of pain in the muscles of the shoulder girdle.
Constantly tense muscles can cause numbness and tingling in the hands.
The main focus of treatment is on restoration, relieving spasms and inflammation and restoring range of motion.
breast
The chest region is less mobile than the rest of the body where osteochondrosis occurs. That's why it rarely appears.
Symptoms: pain in the chest muscles, often aggravated by static load.
brachial plexus
Osteochondrosis of the shoulder joint occurs due to injury, stretching of tendons and muscles. It most often occurs when there is excessive load on the shoulder in athletes and powerlifters. But it can also develop in the cervical osteochondrosis complex.
There is pain and limitations in joint movement.
vertebrate
With osteochondrosis of the spine, the intervertebral discs are destroyed. It happens that not one part of the spine is affected, but two or more. For example, both in the lumbar region and in the cervical region. This is called polysegmental or widespread osteochondrosis of the spine.
lumbar
Osteochondrosis of the lumbar region is common. The spine in the lumbosacral region experiences the greatest stress.
Symptoms:
- pain in the lower back, legs
- pain when bending, turning - stiffness in movements in the back
Hip
With osteochondrosis of the hip joint, the pain is not severe, but it is important to immediately consult a doctor so that surgical intervention is not required.
The knee
Knee joint disease. The cartilage that allows the joint to slide and move freely is destroyed and cannot be restored. Fibrous cartilage forms, causing pain and stiffness in the leg. Pain and limitation of movement in the knee are the main reasons to visit the doctor and make a diagnosis.
youthful
The disease appears in children, most often between the ages of 10 and 18. Degenerative changes occur in the spine, affecting ligaments, joints, intervertebral discs and bones. Juvenile osteochondrosis progresses rapidly, but in the initial stage it is difficult to detect because there are no mobility restrictions. Only in the morning does one feel discomfort after sleep.
Causes
The disease appears when there is a metabolic disorder. As we age, our cartilage tissue wears away. The lack of water, trace elements and amino acids reduces the elasticity of the intervertebral discs. Salt deposits are a consequence of osteochondrosis. The cause of pain is often irritation (or irritation) of nerve roots.
The disease affects athletes who place high stress on the back, such as weightlifters. The risk increases after spinal cord injuries. Osteochondrosis often occurs in schoolchildren who sit for a long time, bending over their desks, and in drivers. Which factor will cause the disease depends on the lifestyle.
Diplomas
For osteochondrosis, there are 4 degrees (stages):
- First degree - chondrosis. There is already pain
- Second degree - instability. The affected vertebral disc is displaced relative to the lower one, which causes acute pain.
- 3rd degree - the formation of intervertebral hernias. They compress nerve fibers and blood vessels.
- Grade 4 - intervertebral disc fibrosis. Osteophytes may appear. These are bone growths with which the body tries to restore the supporting function.
When prevention should be done
Better late than never. If you are overweight and have a sedentary lifestyle, the sooner you start making changes, the more you will invest in your health.
Symptoms
How the disease can appear in different departments:
- back hurts
- coldness and numbness of the hands and feet
- headache
- restriction of movements
It is important not to confuse these signs with other diseases. Symptoms may be similar, for example, to osteochondrosis of the chest and diseases of the cardiovascular system. For accurate diagnosis and immediate treatment, you should consult a neurologist or therapist to get a referral to a specialist.
Pain
Pain is the main problem of osteochondrosis, which is difficult to get rid of. In addition, not only the spinal disc or the joint itself hurts - the pain radiates further throughout the body. And it happens that the pain of thoracic osteochondrosis radiates to the heart, so the sensations are easily confused with heart disease.
How to distinguish heart pain from osteochondrosis:
- With cardiac problems, a burning sensation appears in the chest, which may radiate to the arm or neck. Painful sensations appear suddenly and last no more than 30 minutes. The temperature rises, dizziness and chills appear. Accompanied by a feeling of lack of air, shortness of breath.
- Pain with osteochondrosis can be different: pressing, shooting. As a rule, it is moderate in nature. It is not accompanied by shortness of breath and changes in blood pressure and pulse. It has a herpes nature, it can last for a few days or it can go away immediately.
Headache
Whether a headache can occur depends on the source of the disease. Headache occurs as a result of overloading the musculo-ligamentous apparatus of the neck, the impact of the muscles on the channels for the passage of the painful cutaneous branches of the trigeminal nerve and the impact on the trunks of the autonomic regulation of vascular tone.
Dizziness and noise in the head
Feelings of dizziness and noise in the head with osteochondrosis occur for the same reason as headaches: from excessive muscle strain and irritation of certain areas of the autonomic nervous system with a subsequent vascular reaction. It is important to remember that similar sensations in the ears can be signs of other diseases.
Lump in throat
A lump in the throat with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is a common symptom. This is due to the fact that the inflamed tissue increases in volume. A person may feel a tickling sensation, throbbing in the neck and even suffocation. It feels as if something is stuck in the throat, especially when swallowing. Such concern often forces you to consult a doctor. But this is not always osteochondrosis, it is important to exclude other pathologies, for example, an enlarged thyroid gland, chronic pharyngitis. If you feel something similar, it is better to start with an otolaryngologist. He will determine the cause and refer you to another specialist.
dyspnoea
Shortness of breath occurs due to constriction of the vascular bundles. Appears with osteochondrosis of the cervical or thoracic regions. Because of the pain, it is not possible to breathe deeply, you have to breathe often and shallowly. As a result, respiratory functions are impaired, headaches and dizziness appear due to the lack of oxygen in the brain. This can lead to serious consequences. If you notice such a symptom, consult your doctor.
Panic attacks
A neurosurgeon at a regional hospital claims that there is a direct link between panic attacks and osteochondrosis. One of the causes of panic attacks is a sign of a violation of the blood circulation of the brain. And this often happens precisely with osteochondrosis of the cervical spine due to compression of blood vessels and the vertebral artery. Chest pain and shallow breathing can also cause panic due to this condition.
The temperature
Whether there can be a fever with osteochondrosis depends on many reasons. It is important to rule out other factors, such as acute respiratory infections.
The pressure
The disease can affect blood pressure;
Clinical guidelines
During diagnosis, conservative therapy followed by surgery is recommended to eliminate the cause of pain. The following drugs are described in the clinical instructions:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the form of suppositories, injections, ointments, gels.
- For acute pain with high intensity, therapeutic blockades are indicated, the main drugs for which are local anesthetics and glucocorticoids.
- Manual therapy, osteopathy, massage.
worsening
The sooner treatment is started, the easier it is to avoid future deterioration. A common cause is lifting heavy objects, especially with one hand. It is important to distribute the weight evenly and not to lift it suddenly. It is advised not to lift heavy things at all. If irritations occur, medicines will come to the rescue.
Treatment
The treatment is complex, using several methods at once. The main goal is to relieve pain and prevent further degradation of the vertebrae and cartilage.
Therapeutic exercises (physiotherapy)
It is the main method of conservative treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Charges dosed for
- nerve root decompression
- correction and strengthening of the muscular core
- maintaining the correct posture and giving the ligamento-muscular system the necessary flexibility
- preventing complications
To achieve their goals, patients are recommended to exercise regularly using rehabilitation equipment and perform joint exercises. These exercises improve blood circulation, normalize metabolism and nutrition of the intervertebral discs, help to increase the intervertebral space, form a muscular corset and reduce the load on the back.
However, the treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system is not limited to exercise therapy. Physiotherapy based on the use of physical factors:
- low frequency current
- magnetic field
- ultrasound and laser
Physiotherapy application
This allows you to speed up the treatment of many diseases, increase the effectiveness of drug therapy and reduce its dosage, as well as avoid the typical side effects of drugs.
Massage
It effectively relieves muscle tension and pain, improves blood circulation and has a general strengthening effect.
Manual therapy
The doctor's individual influence on the musculoskeletal system to relieve acute and chronic pain in the spine and joints, as well as to increase the range of motion and proper posture.
Reflexology
Various therapeutic techniques and methods to influence reflexogenic areas of the body and acupuncture points. The use of reflexology in combination with other treatment methods significantly increases their effectiveness.
Drug therapy
It is indicated during the period of aggravation of the disease and aims to relieve pain, eliminate the inflammatory process and increase metabolic processes. Medicines can be taken intramuscularly or intravenously.
It is important to note that although each of the listed methods is very effective, the greatest therapeutic effect can be achieved only when they are combined with exercises using rehabilitation equipment. This allows you to create a complete muscle corset and ensure lasting treatment results. The treatment method for each type of osteochondrosis depends on its location and the causes of its occurrence.
Treatment at home
At home, you can and should continue the treatment, according to your doctor's recommendations. First of all, watch your diet and do exercises at home. If you want to add folk remedies or decoctions to your treatment, consult your doctor to see if their combination with medications is safe.
dope
Most medicines for osteochondrosis are aimed at relieving pain:
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with diclofenac, ibuprofen, ketoprofen and nimesulide. And not only in the form of tablets, but also ointments and gels. It is important that the tablets are taken in courses and not systematically because of their effect on the gastrointestinal tract.
- Opioid analgesics (glucocorticoids) are prescribed by the doctor for severe pain if NSAIDs do not help relieve the pain.
- Anticonvulsants or antidepressants are necessary for neuropathic pain.
- vasodilators to avoid oxygen starvation.
- chondroprotectors for osteochondrosis - drugs to improve cartilage and joint functions.
- muscle relaxants help relieve pain from excessive muscle tension.
APPLICANT
Applicators for osteochondrosis are a popular addition to treatment. It affects nerve impulses and improves blood circulation, helping to relieve swelling. I mainly use two types of applicators:
- Kuznetsov applicator - mattress with plastic spikes
- Lyapko applicator - covered with needles and links of various metals.
They can be used only after the permission of the attending physician.
Collar
A neck collar (or bandage) helps with cervical osteochondrosis to relax the neck muscles and reduce the load on it. As a result, pain goes away and blood circulation in the brain improves. Bandages come in different sizes and stiffness, so if you have neck pain you should definitely consult a doctor and find out the cause. If it is osteochondrosis and you have no contraindications, the doctor will tell you which product is best for you.
Darsonval
Darsonval is a medical device that produces current in the form of a pulsed wet discharge. It has a very wide spectrum of action, from dermatological problems to gastrointestinal disorders. Darsonval improves tissue permeability and improves local blood circulation. Due to this, the drug penetrates faster and deeper, and the muscles relax and the spasms go away.
dropper
Drops for osteochondrosis help to quickly relieve pain. They are prescribed in cases where other drugs are contraindicated. This happens, for example, in people with intolerance to the components of NSAID tablets.
corset
The corset is used for osteochondrosis to fix the spine. This helps relieve tension and prevent dislocation of the vertebrae. You can use it after consulting a doctor.
plaster
Pain in the spine and joints can be relieved with pain relief patches. They are suitable for use when it is not possible to apply ointment or cream, because they stain clothes.
Injections
Injections help to quickly relieve pain during a flare-up. It is effective and fast acting. It is important to continue to take care of your body and, even if you get better, follow your doctor's recommendations and exercise. Injections are also a quick and effective way to deliver nutrients to the intervertebral discs.
What to inject for osteochondrosis:
- chondroprotectors
- NSAIDs
- antispasmodics
- vitamins
The choice depends on the course of the disease, the presence of pain and the recommendations of the attending physician.
Vitamins
- Vitamin D helps in the absorption of calcium, which is necessary for the restoration of the bone structures of the spine.
- Vitamins A, E, C contribute to the production of collagen and other tissues necessary for joints.
- The medical journal talks about B vitamins (thiamine, pyridoxine and cyanocobalamin), which have an analgesic effect in cervical osteochondrosis. Thanks to this, you can reduce the intake of sedatives.
Orthopedic pillows
Orthopedic sleeping pillows will not replace treatment, but sleeping with them will be much more comfortable. Pillows come in different shapes and materials. For example:
- a rectangular or cushioned pillow is suitable for people with any type of osteochondrosis
- crescent shape for neck and shoulder pain
- a pillow with a cutout in the middle or a cutout for the shoulder will help people with cervical osteochondrosis maintain proper blood circulation in any position while sleeping. Optimal for the neck and its natural position.
It is also important to consider not only the form of osteochondrosis, but also in what position a person prefers to sleep. A neurologist will tell you which pillow to choose correctly, after analyzing your sleep preferences and the characteristics of the course of the disease.
Massage
Therapeutic massage can be done for osteochondrosis only in a state of remission. It will help improve blood circulation, metabolic processes, spine and muscle flexibility. Proper massage slows or even stops the spread of the disease. But it is not always possible to visit a massage specialist. Special equipment, such as electric back and neck massagers, will come in handy. They are especially effective in the initial stages of cervical osteochondrosis. The main thing is to use it correctly and consult a doctor.
diets
There is no special diet for osteochondrosis. The most important thing is to maintain a healthy weight. If you are overweight, you should discuss weight loss methods with your doctor and understand the reasons for your high weight.
What does a balanced diet mean:
- protein
- healthy saturated fats
- complex carbohydrates
- fruits and vegetables
It is also important to monitor the amount of salt you consume. Promotes fluid retention in the body.
exercise
Special ones with a therapeutic effect stand apart, for example, after surgery to remove a spinal hernia.
Moreover, these are quite simple exercises even for an unprepared person. For example, "first aid" for relieving tension in the neck:
Gymnastics to improve chest mobility:
You can relieve discomfort in the cervical region and shoulders and improve them by using a double massage roller:
military
Whether someone with osteochondrosis is accepted into the army depends on the extent of the disease and the correct diagnosis. All documents and certificates must be in order: at least the report of a neurologist and radiograph. Otherwise, after a medical examination, a decision on admission to military service is possible.
In which cases they are not taken into the army:
- damage to three or more intervertebral discs
- Anatomical changes are obvious
- severe pain syndrome, including after lifting weights
If there are symptoms and certificates, the young person can receive category B - limited adaptation for service. This means that he will not be taken into the army, but can be called up in case of military training.
It is almost impossible to get category D - complete exemption from military service. It is possible, for example, with kyphosis of osteochondropathy - the last stage of osteochondrosis.
Questions and answers
Acupuncture for osteochondrosis
Acupuncture or acupuncture is used in conjunction with other treatments. It is especially effective in moments of worsening pain syndromes.
The procedure has a number of advantages:
- low risk of allergic reactions
- quick results
- minimal risk of injury
It is important to understand that acupuncture helps relieve pain, but does not cure the disease.
How to sleep correctly with cervical osteochondrosis
There are two optimal positions: lying on your back and on your side.
Sleeping on your back is optimal for relaxing your body. For proper weight distribution, it is recommended to place a small pillow under the knees.
In the lateral position, the neck muscles relax, the load on the spine decreases and the blood circulation process is not disturbed.
It is important to choose the right pillow depending on the position you prefer.
Is it possible to take a steam bath with osteochondrosis?
Most often, a bath is not a contraindication. On the contrary, due to the high temperature, the blood circulation improves and the symptoms are relieved.
In case of exacerbation of osteochondrosis, the bath is contraindicated. If blood flow increases at the site of inflammation, this will cause complications.
Is it possible to play sports with osteochondrosis?
Moderate loads are not only allowed, but also necessary for osteochondrosis. But there are exceptions:
- professional sports
- dangerous sport
- weightlifting sport
Is it possible to warm the neck with cervical osteochondrosis?
You don't need to warm your neck to relieve pain. In this way, the blood will begin to flow even more towards the inflammation and it will intensify.
What not to do with osteochondrosis
- lift weights, including in the gym
- make sudden movements, such as when playing sports
- sleep on a mattress that is too soft or a pillow that is too high
- abuse high-calorie foods, coffee, alcohol
- take a bent position for a very long time, for example when cleaning or in the garden
- wear high heels
Yoga for osteochondrosis
Yoga is an excellent option for physical activity for osteochondrosis. No sudden movements or heavy objects. Yoga not only removes the symptoms, but also fights the cause of the disease. In rare cases, yoga is contraindicated, so you should still discuss it with your doctor.
Osteochondrosis is a serious condition that can be prevented. To do this, you need to monitor your diet and physical activity.